Set against the iconic backdrop of Land’s End, Tyler and Sandra’s wedding at the RIU Palace Cabo San Lucas was a masterclass in romance. The atmosphere was electric from the start, culminating in a ceremony overlooking the turquoise Sea of Cortez that left everyone misty-eyed. Sandra was a vision of elegance as she made her way down the aisle, and the look of pure adoration on Tyler’s face set the tone for the entire evening. Their vows did more than just unite two people; they beautifully wove together their families.
For the portraits, we decided to skip the standard poses and turn the session into a mini-adventure with the famous Arch rising in the background. We stole Tyler and Sandra away to the water’s edge, letting the golden Cabo sun do the heavy lifting. The chemistry between them was effortless as they laughed through the sand, creating images that felt spontaneous and full of life. Capturing the contrast of their formal attire against the soft waves and dramatic rock formations was the perfect way to freeze time before the reception officially took over.
Once the sun dipped below the horizon, the party transitioned to the open-air terrace, where the atmosphere instantly kicked up a notch. Surrounded by the glow of string lights and the glittering view of the Cabo San Lucas bay at night, the reception turned into a high-energy fiesta.
The festivities took a sweet turn as the music dipped for the cake cutting—a classic moment shared under the starlit Baja sky. But the calm didn’t last long; the energy spiked right back up for the bouquet toss. Laughter erupted as Sandra launched her florals into a crowd of eager friends, sparking a playful scramble that became one of the night’s most memorable snapshots.
Planning your own destination celebration? I’d love to help capture it. Take a look at my portfolio to see more of my work as a Cabo wedding photographer and let’s get inspired for your big day!
Wedding Venue FAQ’S
What wedding packages are available at RIU Palace Cabo San Lucas?
The RIU Palace offers a tiered selection of packages designed to fit varying guest counts and budgets. Options range from the “Free Wedding” collection (available when booking a specific number of rooms) to the more comprehensive “Royal,” “Caprice,” and “Indulgence” packages. The higher-tier collections are perfect for couples wanting a completely private dinner reception, upgraded floral designs, and live music, while the simpler packages cater beautifully to intimate elopements or small family gatherings.
What are the available wedding venues at the resort?
The resort offers two primary settings that take advantage of its prime location. The most popular choice is the Beach venue, which provides a direct, unobstructed view of Land’s End and the famous Arch—a truly iconic backdrop for vows. Alternatively, the Garden Gazebo offers a sophisticated, classic atmosphere surrounded by lush manicured greenery and palm trees. For receptions, you can utilize the open-air terraces which offer ocean breezes and views of the bay lights at night.
How many guests can be accommodated for the wedding ceremony and reception?
This property is well-equipped to handle groups of various sizes. The beach area is expansive and can comfortably host larger parties exceeding 100 guests without feeling crowded. The terrace areas are flexible and work well for medium-sized receptions, while the Gazebo is often preferred for groups between 20 and 40 people who want a more contained, intimate environment.
What does a typical RIU Wedding Collection include?
RIU packages are designed to be all-encompassing to minimize stress. A standard comprehensive package typically provides the ceremony setup with decoration, a wedding cake, sparkling wine for the toast, and recorded music during the vows. Moving up to the “Caprice” or “Indulgence” levels adds significant value, including a private dinner reception with a set menu, room upgrades for the couple, beauty salon discounts, and a romantic massage to help you unwind after the big day.
How close is the resort to Los Cabos International Airport?
The drive from Los Cabos International Airport (SJD) takes approximately 40 minutes via the toll road. The resort sits on the swimmable Medano Beach corridor, placing you in an ideal spot that is a quick taxi or water-taxi ride away from the Marina and downtown nightlife, yet far enough away to enjoy a relaxing, upscale atmosphere.
What are the arrival and departure policies?
To ensure a smooth experience, rooms are typically ready for check-in starting at 3:00 pm. On your final day, check-out is scheduled for 11:00 am. It is worth planning your travel around these times so you can make the most of the pool and amenities from the moment you arrive until the moment you leave.
Is the resort suitable for children and families?
Yes, the RIU Palace Cabo San Lucas is a family-friendly property, making it an excellent choice if your guest list includes children. While the adults enjoy the swim-up bars, younger guests can have a blast at the RiuLand Kids’ Club, which offers a dedicated program of activities. (Note: Unlike some other local venues, pets are generally not permitted here, so furry friends will need to stay home).
What kind of dining and entertainment can we expect?
Your stay is defined by the brand’s signature 24-hour all-inclusive service, ensuring you never go hungry or thirsty. The culinary lineup is diverse, featuring everything from avant-garde fusion dishes at Krystal and Japanese specialties at Misaki, to the steakhouse experience at Mar de Cortés. Between meals, the vibe centers around the massive infinity pools directly facing the famous Arch of Cabo San Lucas. Whether you want to join in on the daily poolside entertainment or simply relax with a drink while looking out at Land’s End, the atmosphere caters to both relaxation and fun.
Does the resort host LGBTQ+ weddings?
Without a doubt. RIU Palace Cabo San Lucas is an inclusive venue that happily celebrates love in all its forms, including same-sex marriages. The on-site wedding coordinators are experienced in handling the specific legalities and ceremonial details to ensure a seamless and dignified experience for every couple.
How do outside vendor fees work for photography?
Like many all-inclusive properties in Baja, the resort does charge an external vendor fee if you wish to bring in a photographer who isn’t part of their in-house team. However, paying this fee is often the best investment you can make to ensure your photos have a unique, artistic touch rather than a generic resort look. My wedding photography packages are designed to maximize the value of your investment, capturing the stunning architecture and your personal connection in a way that truly stands out. To discuss how we can make this work for you, visit my contact page or drop me an email.